Reported 12 months ago
According to German news source 'Handelsblatt,' German transport minister Volker Wissing, a member of the Free Democratic Party, faced criticism from the Foreign Ministry, Economy Ministry led by the Green Party, and the Interior Ministry led by the Social Democrats over a data transfer memorandum of understanding with China. German Chancellor Scholz publicly expressed dissatisfaction and emphasized the importance of prior consultation, citing it as a fundamental issue. Despite the critique, the transport ministry defended early notification of the visit's purpose and shared draft MOU before signing with China's Cyberspace Administration. The agreement aims to facilitate cross-border data flow for German automotive companies operating in China. The ministry spokesperson clarified that the MOU is a starting point for legal discussions on data transfer, aligning with the German government's China strategy. German businesses with significant Chinese operations welcomed the initiative, hoping to address legal challenges related to cross-border data flow and privacy. Wissing highlighted the importance of data mobility while considering privacy and security, especially amid China's tightening data transfer regulations since 2022, which have started to ease in recent months. China's new regulations allow international businesses in free trade zones to transmit data overseas under certain conditions. The report is copyrighted by Deutsche Welle in 2024, warning against unauthorized use, with violators subject to compensation and potential criminal charges.
Source: YAHOO